Gonzales Gives His <i>Solo Piano</i> the Deluxe-Redux Treatment

BY Stephenson PricePublished Jul 23, 2009

From his secret underground complex, Canadian-born piano virtuoso and comedic MC super-villain Gonzales is re-releasing a deluxe edition of critically acclaimed instrumental album Solo Piano in North America.

Courtesy of Arts & Crafts, Solo Piano: The Deluxe Edition includes the best-selling 2004 album of instrumental piano shorts, along with a bonus documentary film, From Major to Minor, giving audiences a first-hand look at the "Masterclass" concert (where Gonzales invited audience members on stage for music lessons), the "White Gloves Concert" with Feist, Jamie Lidell and Mocky, and even the video of the 1998 Berlin press conference where Gonzales pronounced himself "President of the Berlin Underground," each of these moments providing a closer look into the world of the eccentric entertainer.

Since moving to Europe in 1998, Gonzales (born Jason Beck) has produced and partnered with artists as diverse as Björk , Peaches, Jamie Lidell, Buck 65 and Jane Birkin, though he is probably best known for his production work on Feist's acclaimed debut, Let It Die, and Grammy-nominated follow-up The Reminder. He has also had a successful dance and hip-hop career in Europe as a nomadic MC, but in May, Gonzales made headlines, breaking the world record for longest solo-artist performance, with a total time of 27 hours, 3 minutes and 44 seconds.

Solo Piano: The Deluxe Edition hits stores September 22, and you can catch Gonzales performing in North America this fall.

Tour dates:

9/23 Los Angeles, CA -€" Henry Fonda Theater
9/25 New York, NY -€" Joe's Pub
9/26 Montreal, QC -€" eXcentris
9/30 Toronto, ON -€" Mod Club

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